Dodgers star catcher Smith's neck recovery not meeting expectations, halting baseball activities

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced that star catcher Will Smith's recovery from a neck issue is not progressing as anticipated, potentially delaying his return to the field until August.

Smith, 31, has been on the injured list since June 11 with neck inflammation. Despite resuming baseball activities, Roberts stated there has been no visible progress. Although Smith is not experiencing pain, the team has decided to halt all baseball-related activities for an additional week.

Smith has appeared in 52 games this season, recording six home runs, 23 RBIs, and a .249 batting average with a .720 OPS. His absence is a significant blow to the Dodgers' lineup.

In other injury news, utility player Kiké Hernández, who went on the 10-day injured list on May 27 with a left oblique strain, has begun a rehabilitation game. According to the Dodgers' official website, Hernández could be back as early as July 28.

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Smith has not seen any progress after resuming baseball activities. Although he is not feeling any pain, the Dodgers decided to have him pause all baseball-related activities for another week.